British Airways knows New York – we fly direct up to 15 times a day from London. Whenever you need to be there, whether for business or leisure, you’re sure to find a journey time and departure airport to suit you. Get ready for your dream holiday in the city that never sleeps.

Connecting two of the world’s busiest cities together is an important task. Trust British Airways for your flights to New York from London. It’s one of the most visited places on earth, but when you fly with us, you won’t get lost in the crowd. Our award-winning service will take care of everything from take-off to landing, making your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible. Where you go from here is up to you. Whether you’re beginning a brilliant NYC city break, business trip or the ultimate New York holiday, start by booking flights with BA.

Nairobi to New York: Flight time
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Choose from one of our 15 daily flights between London and New York

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New York

Flights to New York

British Airways makes booking flights to NYC as easy as 1,2,3. You can fly direct from three London airports to New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK). British Airways flies from London Heathrow (LHR) up to 15 times a day. We also fly several times a day from London Gatwick (LGW) and from London City Airport (LCY) a few times a week. You can also travel directly to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) from London Heathrow (LHR).

Our flight from London City Airport is Club World-only. For a special New York trip, book our London City Club World service to arrive in style and enjoy extra perks.

British Airways operated flights arrive at and depart from Terminal 7 at New York JFK airport. All British Airways flights arrive at and depart from Terminal B in Newark.

Fly direct from London Heathrow (LHR) to JFK International Airport (JFK) and Newark Airport (EWR). Or from London Gatwick (LGW) to JFK International Airport (JFK). Alternatively, our Club World-only service from London City Airport (LCY) is convenient for business, or a great way to start a special trip.

A flyers’ guide: New York flight tips

Everything you need to know about flying to New York with British Airways.

When’s the cheapest time to fly to New York?

New York attracts visitors year-round but is particularly popular in holiday season (November and December) – if you’re thinking of flying in autumn and winter you certainly won’t be alone – plenty come to celebrate the city’s festival spirit. New York flights are also busy in summer (May and June). You’ll see prices rising accordingly in both these periods – but the city really is at its best. But even the world’s busiest city has its ‘quieter’ periods. January, February, and August are often the cheaper times to fly. There’s a reason for this: it’s very cold early in the year, and very hot in late summer, so pack accordingly. To find the cheapest direct flights to New York, use our low lowest fare finder.

How long is the flight from London to New York?

Whichever airport you choose, a direct flight from London to New York will take just over seven hours. New York is five hours behind GMT, meaning you can fly on a Friday after work and still arrive in Manhattan in time for a cocktail.

Which is the best airport to fly into?

With British Airways you can fly direct from London to two of New York’s major airports: JFK and Newark. Both are a similar distance away from Midtown Manhattan. John F Kennedy International Airport is in southern Queens on Long Island – southeast of Manhattan. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is in New Jersey – a similar distance away to the southwest. Generally speaking, if you’re staying in uptown in northern Manhattan or in The Bronx, Newark is more convenient. However, if you’re based in Brooklyn, Queens or anywhere else on Long Island, JFK makes for a quicker transfer.

New York taxis charge a flat rate from JFK to Manhattan of $52.50 (plus tolls, surcharges and tips). A metered fare applies from Newark. Uber and Lyft also operate in the area. You could also use a combination of public transport and the AirTrain to reach both airports from the city. To reach Kennedy, you can either take the subway or the L.I.R.R. east to Jamaica station; then catch the AirTrain to the airport. In order to reach Newark - Liberty, hop on the Amtrak or N.J. Transit west to Newark before changing to a separate AirTrain for the airport. This is the cheapest option – and it might also save you a traffic jam.

Do I need a visa for America?

If you hold a British passport, then you currently do not need a Visa to fly to New York. Instead, you must apply for an ESTA (a Visa waiver programme) no less than 72 hours before you fly. The ESTA costs $14 and you can easily apply online.

How many bags can I check in?

British Airways have a generous baggage allowance for long-haul flights. If you’re travelling in Economy to New York, you can take one 23 kg bag per person. If you book Premium Economy, you can take two 23 kg bags each. Business Class travellers, and travellers flying on our Club World London City service, can take two 32 kg bags each. First class passengers can bring three 32 kg bags per person. If you’re travelling with children under the age of 12, you can also take one fully collapsible pushchair and one car seat. If you have any additional baggage requirements, read our baggage guide to find out more.

Which cabin?

You can fly economy, premium economy, business class and First on our New York flights.

Our World Traveller (economy) cabin has our cheapest seats and is great for budget travellers. You’ll get a meal, drinks and full use of our in-flight entertainment system. Upgrade to World Traveller Plus (premium economy) for a quieter, smaller cabin with more space, and a travel pack including a blanket and toothbrush.

In our Club World (business class) cabin, you can convert your seat into a fully-flat bed with luxurious White Company bedding. Our First cabins provide massages and facials with Elemis spa products when you fly from London Heathrow Terminals 3 and 5, and JFK International.

Travel to New York in style with our Club World London City Service

With just 32 seats, our business class flights to New York – flying from London City to JFK International – are the last word in luxury. You’ll clear US immigration in advance during a 50-minute stop in Shannon, Ireland, making your arrival at JFK as easy as possible. Then it’s straight out of the airport and into the city; your journey couldn’t be any smoother.

Three long haul flight tips for New York

Reduce jet lag and travel in style with our tips for flying from London to New York.

Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration. And save the beer for Brooklyn: if you avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine on the flight you’ll have more restful sleep. New York is five hours behind GMT, so use our jet lag advisor to find out more about how to travel time zones.

Consider wearing compression socks to help your circulation. Get up regularly to stretch your legs, or try some in-seat exercises during the flight. Slow circulation can make your jet lag worse.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and layers that you can throw on or take off, depending on the temperature.

New York tips

Our insider New York hints and tips will have you feeling like a local in no time

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When to tip

Tipping isn’t just for good service in New York – it’s customary here. Add 15-20% to your restaurant bill and cab ride. Bartenders, hotel staff and doormen usually expect $1-$2.

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Free things to do

Some New York museums have free admission on selected weekdays. You can visit The Whitney or the MoMA on Friday evenings without the usual entrance charge. New York’s parks are free, too and wonderful in autumn when the leaves change. Walk the High Line or discover Central Park’s Conservatory Garden.

Weather in NYC

The weather in New York can reach extremes throughout the year. Summers can be swelteringly hot compared to the UK, while winters can be very cold. Early autumn is crisp, chilly, and dry - with weather becoming more unpredictable from mid-October.

Plan your perfect New York trip

Where to stay in the city

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Lie back and relax: whatever your budget, we’ve found the perfect places for your stay in New York . Book a bed right on top of Times Square to be near all the sights, or order mac and cheese on room service at a boutique hotel.

You don’t have to be a Park Avenue princess to enjoy some of New York’s best sights. If you’re looking for free NYC activities, then Drag Clubs, farmer’s markets and beautiful parks all await. Spend time in the city without spending a cent.

The Waldorf Salad, the New York Cheesecake, the cream cheese bagel: New York is the king of comfort foods. From pizza to pastrami, eat your way around New York’s neighbourhoods with our guide to the city’s classic dishes.